Best Subs in Premier League History
In the dynamic world of Premier League football, a substitute can be more than just a fresh pair of legs. Sometimes they can dramatically alter the outcome of a match.
Over the years, several substitution appearances have turned games on their heads, contributing crucial goals, game-saving performances, and unforgettable moments that have etched their names into the annals of the league.
A part of our series about historic Premier League moments, this article explores ten of the best substitution appearances in Premier League history, looking at the details that made these moments so impactful.
Other articles in this series focus on iconic comebacks, managers’ tactical changes, most dramatic final matchday moments and the best Premier League debuts.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer – Manchester United vs Nottingham Forest (6th February 1999)
In a performance that solidified his nickname as the “super sub,” Ole Gunnar Solskjaer scored four goals in the last 14 minutes of the match against Nottingham Forest.
Entering the fray with United already leading 4-1, Solskjaer’s sharpshooting helped secure an 8-1 victory, marking it as one of the most memorable substitution appearances in Premier League history.
Nottingham Forest 1-8 Manchester United (98/99) | Premier League Classics | Manchester United
Adam Le Fondre – Reading vs Chelsea (30th January 2013)
Adam Le Fondre’s substitution against Chelsea was nothing short of miraculous. Coming on in the 66th minute with Reading trailing 2-0, Le Fondre scored twice in the last five minutes. His goals not only secured a dramatic 2-2 draw, but also demonstrated the impact a timely substitution can have against even the staunchest of opponents.
Furthermore, Brian McDermott was a particularly inspired manager on that day, as the 2 assists for Le Fondre’s goals were also provided by a player introduced in the second half: Hope Akpan.
Reading v Chelsea, 2012/13 | Premier League
Nicklas Bendtner – Arsenal vs Tottenham Hotspur (22nd December, 2007)
In the fiercely contested North London derby, Nicklas Bendtner made Premier League history by scoring just seconds after coming on as a substitute. His header in the 76th minute was the only goal of the game, giving Arsenal a critical 2-1 victory over their rivals, Tottenham Hotspur.
Edin Dzeko – Manchester City vs Queens Park Rangers (13th May 2012)
One of the most dramatic moments in Premier League history featured Edin Dzeko as a key figure. In a title-deciding match, Dzeko came off the bench to score an equaliser in the 92nd minute.
His goal set the stage for Sergio Aguero’s legendary winner, securing Manchester City’s first Premier League title in a breathtaking fashion.
Manchester City 3-2 QPR – As it happened on Soccer Saturday
Jamie Vardy – Leicester City vs Aston Villa (9th March 2020)
After a goal drought, Jamie Vardy returned from injury as a 59th minute substitute at the King Power Stadium against Aston Villa and immediately impacted the game.
Scoring twice in a 4-0 victory, Vardy’s performance bolstered his team’s morale and reinforced his status as a key player in the Foxes’ attacking line-up.
Chicharito Hernandez – Aston Villa vs Manchester United (10th November 2012)
Chicharito’s knack for being in the right place at the right time was on full display against Aston Villa. Coming on at half time, when United were 1-0 down, he scored 2 goals to provide Manchester United with a crucial win.
Aston Villa v Man Utd, 2012/13 | Premier League
Steven Gerrard – Liverpool vs Newcastle United (30th December 2011)
Steven Gerrard’s return from injury as a substitute against Newcastle was marked by a stellar performance.
After coming on with 59 minutes played, he scored a goal and assisted another, leading Liverpool to a 3-1 win. Gerrard’s influence as a midfielder was immediately felt, demonstrating his integral role in Liverpool’s gameplay.
These 7 substitutions are memorable not only for their immediate impact, but also for their lasting significance in Premier League lore. Each player listed demonstrated the unique ability to change the course of a game, proving that sometimes the most crucial player is the one who starts the game on the bench.
Whether it was through crucial goals, strategic plays, or inspirational comebacks, these substitutes have left an indelible mark on their teams and the league as a whole.